AkzoNobel's Specialty Chemicals business and Itaconix have signed an application agreement to evaluate and develop innovative bio-based chelates for use in the consumer and industrial detergents and cleaners markets. It is the second partnership stemming from a joint development agreement signed by the companies earlier this year to develop and commercialize sustainable products made from renewable feedstocks using Itaconix technology. Products from this collaboration will be marketed under AkzoNobel's Dissolvine brand.

"Bio-based chelates show promise for use in laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners and other consumer and commercial cleaning products," said Peter Kuijpers, general manager chelates and micronutrients, AkzoNobel. "They are replacements for phosphates, which are being phased out due to environmental concerns."

"Our success to date in North America and Europe demonstrates the breakthrough potential for our novel bio-based polymer technology in everyday home care products," added John R. Shaw, president of Itaconix US and global homecare. "We are excited to work with AkzoNobel, a world leader in chelates, to maximize the commercial potential of these products."

According to Annika Karlsson, RD&I director in specialty chemicals, this is the latest example in a series of agreements to expand the use of Itaconix polymers.

"Being able to use renewable polymers like these presents a significant sustainability advantage for our customers and will help us to grow our business," she added.

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